Systems Science

What is it?

Systems science is the science which is suitable for dealing with, and providing solutions to complex issues, such as social, managerial, financial and environmental problems. It focuses on the “whole”, i.e. on the higher level of a problem and examines the interactions of its constituent parts. Systems science is holistic and synthetic and hence interdisciplinary: it forms the basis for most modern sciences, such as information sciences, network theory and cybernetics. It is also the basis for the study and establishment of Sustainability.

Why is it important?

In recent years we face significantly complex problems, concerning either the simple implementation of actions, projects and policies, or the viability - sustainability - of an organization or company in today’s competitive globalised markets. This complexity stems from the local and global interaction of multiple factors from the natural, social and financial environments.

Every human creates his/her own views and strategies to cope with this complexity; he/she creates his/her own mental models. Most people have learned to use the analytical logic: instead of viewing the whole problem, they concentrate on smaller problems that are independent. Even though it may be useful for simple situations, this logic is both inadequate and improper for dealing with modern complex problems.

Systems science, on the other hand, helps us build models which are appropriate, not only for a better view of reality, but mainly for making better interventions and applying better solutions.  In contrast to analytic logic, systems logic allows us to view the world and every problem as a coherent whole of interdependent parts.

The world is not a machine; it is a living organism!

Loops everywhere!

Every organisation is part of a network or system of organisations, where resources, energy, products, money and information are flowing and exchanged among them. Just as a living organism is part of an ecosystem, a company is part of a network of suppliers, customers, or - generally -  stakeholders. Also, within its internal environment, a company survives by operating similar networks, which form the production, service delivery and management systems.

Loops of interactions emerge in every system, organisation or company, which determine their control, evolution and survival. Due to their complexity, these loops are often difficult to identify and hence, control or coordinate for the benefit of the organization. The result is that many organizations ignore these loops, even though they depend on them, thus putting their sustainability at stake. 

Closing the Loop…

Close the Loop uses the systems science in all the services it provides, so that every organization can realise, create and manage the loops which are necessary for its survival and ethical behavior, or, in other words…

Close the Loop

Close the Loop Open the way to Sustainability!